We depend upon the generosity of people like you to help us improve pediatric health and enhance the patient care experience. Because at Children’s, we don’t just care for children, we care for the most amazing people on earth.

Patient & Family Education Materials

Buspirone (Buspar)

How does this medicine work?

Buspirone (byoo-spye-rone) acts on the brain to treat anxiety (too much worry). It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor. Buspirone is not related to other anxiety medicines such as diazepam (Valium®).

How should I give it?

Buspirone comes in pill form. Give it at regular times to keep a steady level in the bloodstream. Give it exactly as prescribed.

___ For children who cannot swallow pills:

Crush it between 2 spoons or crush it inside a plastic bag or in folded paper.

Mix the powder with a very small amount (about 1 teaspoon) of soft food, such as applesauce, chocolate syrup, ice cream, jelly, or yogurt. Make sure your child takes all of the mixture.

Are there any precautions about food or other medicines?

This medicine can be taken with or without food. Follow any other directions provided by your doctor for using this medicine.

Certain medicines interact with buspirone. It should not be given within 10 days of receiving medicines called MAO inhibitors. Please check with the doctor or pharmacist before giving any other prescription or non-prescription medicines, herbs, or vitamins.

What should I do if a dose is missed?

Take the missed dose as soon as possible, unless it is within 6 hours of the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Never give a double dose. If your child misses two doses, call the clinic.

If your child vomits (throws up) within 30 minutes after receiving a dose, please call the clinic for instructions.

What are the side effects?

Common

drowsiness

lightheadedness, dizziness

nausea (upset stomach)

Occasional

tiredness or weakness

blurred vision

dry mouth

The person taking this medicine should not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until it is clear that no risky side effects are present.

The dose may need to be increased slowly to avoid side effects.

When should I call the clinic?

Call the clinic if:

your child is having suicidal thoughts or if you are concerned that s/he may injure him- or herself.

irregular heartbeat

chest pain

depression

shakiness

numbness or tingling feeling

excessive dizziness or lightheadedness

fainting

shortness of breath

vomiting due to this medicine

What else do I need to know?

Check with your doctor or nurse practitioner before stopping this medicine. Buspirone dose is usually lowered over time.

You and your child should know the names of all the medicines he or she is taking. Share this information with anyone involved in your child's care. Please bring the medicine container when your child comes to the clinic or emergency department.

Always make sure you have enough medicine on hand. Each time you refill your prescription, check to see how many refills are left. If no refills are left, the pharmacist will need 2 or 3 days to contact the doctor to renew the prescription.

Check the label and expiration date before giving each dose. Ask your pharmacist what to do with outdated or unused medicines. If there is no "take-back" program empty them into the trash.

Store all medicines in their original container and away from direct sunlight or heat. Do not store in humid places such as the bathroom. Keep them out of children's reach, locked up if possible.

If too much or the wrong kind of medicine is taken, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. If your child is unconscious or has a seizure, call 911.

Questions?

This sheet is not specific to your child but provides general information. If you have any questions, please call the clinic or pharmacy.

This page is not specific to your child, but provides general information on the topic above. If you have any questions, please call your clinic. For more reading material about this and other health topics, please call or visit Children's Family Resource Center library, or visit www.childrensmn.org/educationmaterials.